PilgrimvsWillamette
Pilgrim and Willamette are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.
Pilgrim
Alpha acid
9–13%
Beta acid
4.2–5.5%
Total oil
1–1.8 mL
United Kingdom
Willamette
Alpha acid
4–7.2%
Beta acid
3–4.5%
Total oil
0.6–1.6 mL
United States
Key differences
When to pick Pilgrim
- Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
- Higher beta acid - smoother, longer-lasting bitterness
When to pick Willamette
No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.
Aroma profile and use
Shared aromas
Citrus
Only in Pilgrim
FruitySpicyLemonGrapefruitPearBerry
Only in Willamette
IncenseElderberryCaramelCurryFloral
Property
| Property | Pilgrim | Willamette |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha acid | 9–13% | 4–7.2% |
| Beta acid | 4.2–5.5% | 3–4.5% |
| Co-humulone | 36–38% | 28–35% |
| Total oil | 1–1.8 mL | 0.6–1.6 mL |
| Myrcene | 30–35% | 30–40% |
| Humulene | 21–25% | 20–27% |
| Caryophyllene | - | 7–8% |
| Farnesene | 0–1% | 5–6% |
| Origin | United Kingdom | United States |
| Purpose | Dual purpose | Dual purpose |